Greetings from New York. You'll find buzzy major cities here if you're looking for them (yeah, New York City, we're looking at you). You'll be glad you came if, however, your goal was to find something a little more calming and tranquil, like gorgeous national and state parks brimming with rugged gorges, towering mountains, glittering lakes, and thundering waterfalls.
The Empire State is full of tranquil vistas that are so exquisite that they'll make your camera tremble with delight. Fortunately, the need of protecting these landscapes was understood early on. Both national and state parks were established by the government to preserve both the local ecology and the numerous historic buildings scattered around the area.
There are so many incredible things to do in New York, from seeing the house of Harriet Tubman to seeing the breathtaking Niagara Falls to soaking in the therapeutic waters of Saratoga Springs. With the help of our ranking of the top national and state parks in New York, decide which adventure to undertake first.
1.Park Letchworth State
Talk about a lovely getaway. Regardless of how long you want to stay, a visit to Letchworth State Park will uplift your spirit. This magnificent wonderland, also known as the Grand Canyon of the East, is one of the best locations in New York for photography. It is full of natural beauty.
Situated to awe-inspiring cliffs (some of which rise over 600 feet) and some of the best waterfalls in New York, this mesmerising landscape will be hard to pull your eyes away from. The Genesee River cascades down a sizable gorge bordered with cliffs and forests to form the Genesee River's three main falls, known as the Upper, Middle, and Lower Falls.
These falls, especially the most impressive, bigger Middle Falls, are likely to be heard before seen. For the best viewing of the falls, go during the early spring. Due to the snowmelt, they ought to be rushing and roaring furiously.
There are many locations to enjoy a close-up view, but Inspiration Point offers the best overall falls panorama.
Explore some of the 66 miles of trails on foot, cool off in the pool, go white-water rafting or kayaking, or climb aboard a hot air balloon.
Going there in the winter? There are plenty of things to do even in the colder months, so don't worry. You'll never get bored with cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, skating, or snow tubing.
The park is enormous and costs $10 each car to enter; it encompasses more than 14,000 acres (the falls are a 14-mile drive from the Mount Morris entrance). To fully enjoy this splendour, schedule a full day of time. Moreover, bring a bag for your waste because there aren't any on-site trash cans. "Carry-in, carry-out" is their guiding principle.
2. Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls National Historic Area was established in 2008, covering the region from Wheatfield to the Niagara River's mouth. The famous falls, one of North America's Seven Natural Wonders, as well as the quaint tiny towns of Youngstown and Lewiston are all located within these boundaries.
The Niagara Gorge Exploration Center, Niagara Aquarium, and Cave of the Winds are just a few of the well-known attractions in Niagara Falls State Park. Visitors can experience the force of the falls at the latter's Hurricane Deck, where they can get a little wet and feel the vibrations through their core. This park's 400 acres were designed by the same landscape architect who was in charge of New York City's Central Park.
Pick up a ride on the Explore Niagara Shuttle, according to an insider. It takes passengers past 15 of the most well-known historical sites, including Old Fort Niagara and Niagara Falls. What's best? It's unpaid.
3. State Park Robert H. Treman
The magnificent Robert H. Treman State Park is located right in the middle of the Finger Lakes region. The more than 1,000 acres of the park have 12 spectacular waterfalls in addition to the picturesque Enfield Glen. It is understandable why locals in nearby Ithaca adore it so much.
The Lower Falls, often known as Enfield Falls, is a popular summertime destination. It's simple to lose hours plunging into the chilly water below the falls from the diving board. There is a lifeguard on duty during the busiest summer hours, so don't worry.
Tighten your laces and go for a hike along one of the park's six paths while you're not practising your swan dive. They weave their way through the gorge's rocky cliffs, through more mesmerising waterfalls, and through forested areas. Lower Falls can be seen in all its glory from above thanks to the simple Lower Rim Trail.
115-foot-tall Lucifer Falls, the second most magnificent waterfall in the park, should not be missed. It makes sense why this has been called one of the greatest tourist destinations and activities in the Finger Lakes Area of New York.
4. Hudson Valley
This breathtakingly beautiful landscape, which technically extends 150 miles along the renowned Hudson River from Albany (in the north) to New York City, is another National Heritage Region, not a state or national park.
In addition to breathtaking views (we're talking about the Shawangunk and Catskill mountains, as well as beautiful lakes), the area is rich in history. It's the ideal location for a city getaway.
During the 17th and 18th centuries, the 300-mile-long river acted as a vital transportation route that benefited colonies. It was crucial in the American War of Independence as well.
In the form of preserved Victorian houses originally occupied by New York's aristocracy (we're talking Roosevelts, Vanderbilts, and Rockefellers), as well as institutions like the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum, you can still see traces of the area's historic significance today.
The region's 10 counties are home to delicious farm-to-table eateries, farmers markets, and thriving cultural scenes, making it one of the top locations to visit in New York.
The Hudson River School, the first art school in America, was founded here. It's simple to understand where the skilled painters found their inspiration with such gorgeous backgrounds.
5. Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Almost 1,770 acres of picturesque landscape are covered by 40 kilometres of trails at Westchester County's Rockefeller State Park Preserve. The trails were donated by the Rockefeller family in 1983 and are made of crushed stone that John D. Rockefeller Sr. and Jr. set out in the early 1900s.
This gorgeous state park will provide you to a gentle caress of lovely views whether you choose to walk, cycle, jog, or ride a horse there. Every season brings out the beauty of Swan Lake and the Pocantico River, and the beautiful bridges make for great photo ops. The 13 Bridges Loop Trail is where you may find them.
Bring your binoculars, since there are more than 200 different bird species in the refuge.
A trip to this lovely pastoral park, which is appropriately situated in Pleasantville, is, well, pleasant. Birdsong will soothe you, a bath in the lake (or river) will refresh you, and a snowshoe trek in the forest will energise you during the winter.
6. Catskill State Park
Catskill State Park, sometimes known as Catskill Park, stretches across parts of New York and Delaware. The magnificent Catskill Forest Preserve in New York is a part of this state park. Currently, this state-protected territory spans more than 300,000 acres of untamed beauty.
This state park has all you might want and more, whether you want untamed forest land, blooming meadows, shimmering lakes, bubbling springs, rushing waterfalls, breathtaking mountains, or steep cliffs.
No matter what time of year you come, there are countless exciting activities to do in New York with your family thanks to the abundance of nearby natural attractions.
Having said that, a vacation to the Catskills in the fall is a sure thing. The kaleidoscope of colours that suddenly appear are breathtaking.
7. State Park Gantry Plaza
Gantry Plaza State Park is situated in the Queens suburb of Long Island City and is one of the tiniest state and national parks on our list. Unexpectedly an urban park, this entertaining location provides stunning views of the midtown New York City skyline. The Empire State Building and the United Nations are clearly visible without the need for squinting.
There are no significant waterfalls or hiking trails in the forest nearby. But, you may temporarily forget you're in a city by taking a stroll along the East River, taking in the pleasant aroma of the park's gardens, dancing to outdoor performances, and fishing off the pier.
8. Minnewaska State Park Preserve,
One of the best places to hike in New York is Minnewaska State Park Preserve, a breathtaking feature tucked away in Ulster County. At this Hudson Valley treasure, winding trails take tourists past cascading waterfalls, crystal-clear lakes, lush hardwood forests, and stunning cliffs. It's difficult to imagine that one attraction could contain so much beauty.
This state park is located in the Shawangunk Mountain Range, where you can expect to enjoy breathtaking views from the summit of its jagged cliffs. Include some climbing equipment if you enjoy exploring new places and have previous rock climbing expertise.
You can stroll, trek, cycle, or run your way across a breathtaking variety of landscape on one of the more than 50 miles of available trails.
Insider's tip: For those who want to spend even more time exploring this nirvana, the Samuel Pryor Shawangunk Gateway Campsite is located just five minutes from the park's entrance.
9. State Park Buttermilk Falls
Visit Buttermilk Falls State Park if you enjoy waterfalls (and who doesn't, really?). It is called after the striking waterfall that cascades down the wide valley inside the park's boundaries from boiling Buttermilk Creek. This park, which is quite beautiful in its own right, is home to many must-see attractions.
Did you know? New York’s Adirondack Park is the largest state park in the United States. It is larger than the Yellowstone, Yosemite, Grand Canyon, Glacier and Olympic National Parks combined.
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The first place is Buttermilk Falls. This 165-foot wonder, one of New York's best waterfalls, is so stunning that you won't be able to help taking pictures of it. The next stop is Larch Meadows, which is the best place to see wildlife. One of the nicest spots to visit in New York State is this tranquil marsh, which is adorned by a winding nature trail.
The park's top region features a lake, trails that wind through gorges, rock rims, and forests, as well as picnic spaces and playing fields. Camping, more sports grounds, and a natural pool are all located in the lower portion. This is a fantastic day trip location that is only a 10-minute drive from Ithaca.
10. Bear Mountain State Park,
The breathtaking vista you're seeking for can be found at Bear Mountain State Park. This gorgeous park, which is perched in the untamed mountains above the Hudson River, is more than deserving of a visit and a spot on our list of the greatest national and state parks in New York.
Enjoy a picnic, a bike ride, or a trek through the Hudson Highlands with the kids. They'll always be grateful to you for taking them to the merry-go-round and the Trailside Museums & Zoo in the park. Then jump in the park's swimming pool to beat the summer heat. Go cross-country skiing through the trails or spin around the skating rink in the winter.
Driving to the summit of Bear Mountain is the best thing to do while in Bear Mountain State Park. The Perkins Memorial Tower and the most breathtaking panoramic view of the Hudson River, Hudson Highlands, and Harriman State Park are located here.
11. State Park Saratoga Spa
The benefits of Saratoga Spa State Park are innumerable. The belief that drinking the water here would cure your ailments is one of the most intriguing.
The Mohawk and Iroquois tribes believed the water from the mineral springs had therapeutic properties and could treat anything from diabetes to heartburn. There is no evidence to support this, but many individuals flocked to the region to bottle the water, leading the state to establish Saratoga Spa State Park in an effort to protect the springs.
Visitors now come to the park intending to do much more than just drink the water. Miles of pathways take visitors on adventures through the lush surroundings, while two swimming pools tempt younger visitors to dive into the cool water. Two golf courses on-site are an added treat.
The park features historic structures, the Saratoga Performing Arts Center, the National Museum of Dancing, the Spa Little Theater, and of course the Roosevelt Baths and Spa. On a more cultural note.
12. Park Allegany State
Allegany State Park's Red House Area serves as the centre of all activity. A magnificent Tudor-style building (a.k.a. the Administration Building) is home to a natural history museum, as well as a gift store. Five kilometres of pathways encircle the lake, providing cyclists and hikers with shade from the sun and a closer look at the region's rich forest.
Bedrock "city" Thunder Rocks is very stunning and shouldn't be missed. It's like entering a fantasy tale to wander across here. Children will enjoy scaling the rocks and reaching the summit for a better view.
Camping, boat and bike rentals, tennis, swimming at the sandy beach, and fishing are available to visitors. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular winter activities.
13. a national historical park in Saratoga
Saratoga National Historical Park is divided into four primary sections. The largest is the Saratoga Battlefield, where American soldiers beat British forces during the American Revolution in the Battle of Saratoga.
The Schuyler Mansion, which has been restored, is a fascinating relic of the region's colourful past. Visitors can learn more about the significant influence Major General Philip Schuyler had on the development of American history by visiting the home where the Revolutionary War hero once resided.
There is no way to miss the Saratoga Monument. This massive stone obelisk, which stands 155 feet tall, was erected in 1883 to honour British General John Burgoyne's capitulation to General Horatio Gates on October 17, 1777. The Hudson River Valley may be seen in all its glory by taking the stairs all the way to the summit.
A 22-acre self-guided walk winds through Victory Woods. It takes place in the last British Army camp before General Burgoyne gave up.
14. State Park Point au Roche
This lovely, 856-acre state park is located quite near to the Canadian border on the northwest coast of Lake Champlain, one of the best lakes in the Country. Point au Roche State Park, which is in Clinton County, is a wonderful vacation spot for families in New York.
visitors can spend their summer days relaxing on the beautiful, sandy beach, playing volleyball, SUPing, or swimming in the glistening lake. Ice fishing, skating, and cross-country skiing are the most well-liked wintertime pastimes.
Speaking of the lake, lots of visitors choose to go boating or fishing there. The park's 60 mooring spots in Deep Bay make this simple.
Want to get out of the water? With a number of routes available, it's simple to trek or cycle through the forest to discover the local fauna in varied habitats. To learn everything there is to know about the area, visit the Nature Center.
15. Chimney Bluffs State Park,
You'll quickly understand why Chimney Bluffs State Park bears such an intriguing name. This famous location, so named because of its distinctive and dramatic topography, is unforgettable. Massive spires produced by glaciers that rise 150 feet into the air can be seen against the azure waves of Lake Ontario's southern shore.
This beautifully carved state park is in the little hamlet of Wolcott in the Finger Lakes, and it looks almost unearthly. Visitors to Chimney Bluffs State Park can anticipate seeing numerous nature trails, as well as prickly spires (sometimes referred to as drumlins), among other things.
Restrooms and picnic spots are amenities. Year-round, the park is open from sunrise till nightfall, however during the busy season, there is an entrance fee (between April 1st and October 31st).
If you're intending to bring small children or dogs, use caution because the cliff-top walk can be extremely hazardous and perilous.
16. Harriet Tubman National Historical Park
At Auburn, there is a relatively new national park called the Harriet Tubman National Historical Park. Hence, depending on the time you come, some of it may be undergoing refurbishment.
This significant monument commemorates and chronicles the life of the courageous Harriet Tubman, a conductor on the Underground Railroad who over the course of her career freed several other slaves.
The park is home to three significant structures: Harriet Tubman's residence, which can currently only be seen from the exterior; the Tubman Home for the Aged, which she founded in 1896; and the Thompson Memorial African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church, which was constructed thanks to her fundraising skills.
17. State Park Belmont Lake
Belmont State Park in West Babylon welcomes guests with more than 460 acres of nonstop entertainment. This huge park is one of the most well-liked places to spend a weekend outside in New York for families.
The park is divided in half by two sizable bodies of water, providing even more chances for amusing activities. 4.2 miles to the south, Carll's Creek is bordered with hiking paths.
The 29-acre Belmont Lake, which has a fishery and warm-water species including bluegill, yellow perch, pumpkinseed, and brown bullhead, is probably the more well-known of the two. From Memorial Day to Columbus Day, row boats can be leased on the weekends; from June 20 to September 3rd, they are available every day.
Horseback riding, kayaking, pedal boating, fishing, and canoeing are all well-liked pastimes. Around 7.5 miles of property can be explored via trails on foot, a bicycle, or cross-country skis in the winter.
18. Storm King State Park
The unmistakable Storm King highlight also goes by the park's original name. Visitors are in awe as they stand beneath Cornwall's breathtaking Storm King Mountain, which soars more than 1,300 feet over the sparkling Hudson River.
More than 1,900 acres of rough beauty make up the park, which is adored by hikers from all around the area. Even more so if you've brought a camera, the climb up Storm King Mountain is worthwhile.
The top offers unrivalled views of the Hudson River and Hudson Highlands. For good reason, this is a well-liked stop on one of the best trips to view the fall colours in New York. Wear the appropriate footwear, and be ready for a moderate climb.
There are a total of 10 miles of trails to explore, so bring snacks, a picnic, and everything else you'll need for a fun day out. There are no amenities on the property.
Try the Bobcat Trail if you're not much of a hiker. This state park's lone "simple" trail leads tourists on a 0.4-mile journey to the North Ridge of Crow's Nest, where there is no climbing required to see the vista.
19. The National Seashore of Fire Island
On the name-brand barrier island, Fire Island National Seashore is surrounded by white-tailed deer-dotted coastal forests, picturesque beaches, and gently rolling sand dunes. One of the best things to do on Long Island is to visit Fire Island, which is straightforward to understand.
You'll be glad you took the time to explore this magnificent region of natural beauty, which is technically a national seashore rather than a national park. The Fire Island Lighthouse, the William Floyd House, and the Wilderness Visitor Center are all located inside the national seashore, which extends over 26 miles of this illustrious remote isle.
The greatest time to visit this park is from May through October, when Long Island's Bay Shore, Sayville, and Patchogue offer convenient access to the island via passenger ferries.